The Forbes Health editorial team is independent and objective. To help support our reporting work, and to continue our ability to provide this content for free to our readers, we receive compensation from the companies that advertise on the Forbes Health site. This compensation comes from two main sources. First, we provide paid placements to advertisers to present their offers. The compensation we receive for those placements affects how and where advertisers’ offers appear on the site. This site does not include all companies or products available within the market. Second, we also include links to advertisers’ offers in some of our articles; these “affiliate links” may generate income for our site when you click on them.
The compensation we receive from advertisers does not influence the recommendations or advice our editorial team provides in our articles or otherwise impact any of the editorial content on Forbes Health. While we work hard to provide accurate and up-to-date information that we think you will find relevant, Forbes Health does not and cannot guarantee that any information provided is complete and makes no representations or warranties in connection thereto, nor to the accuracy or applicability thereof.
Audited & Verified: Jul 28, 2024, 4:07pm
Medically Reviewed
| PsychologyOnline marriage counseling can be a convenient, flexible, and cost-effective way to attend therapy with your partner. From the comfort of your home, you can find support and guidance to work through issues affecting your relationship. Below, we detail the best online marriage counseling services available today, along with important details like cost, insurance coverage and services offered.
To choose the best online marriage counseling group, the Forbes Health editorial team analyzed data on several mental health companies specifically offering marriage counseling services, considering factors such as cost, whether free consultations are included and more. Note: Costs are accurate at the time of publication.
The Forbes Health editorial team prioritizes the accuracy and integrity of the data collected. Our ranking is based on quantitative data and is free from conflicts of interest. We carefully fact check the information featured in our ranking and are committed to producing rankings and supplemental content about mental health treatment that readers can trust. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our online therapy methodology for the rankings below.
ReGain is a platform focused on online couples therapy. To sign-up, you can choose whether you’d like to start as an individual or if you’ll be starting the journey with your partner. You complete a brief questionnaire, decide whether to invite your partner (if you chose a solo sign-up) and then are matched with a licensed counselor, social worker, therapist or psychologist and can begin therapy.
“As a working mother with a hectic schedule, I found the convenience of Regain to be beneficial. My husband and I were matched with a counselor within two days and found our session to be helpful in discussing some ways to improve our communication as a couple. Our counselor listened to our personal goals and explored our strengths and weaknesses.
“In addition to counseling, I was able to attend a groupinar on conquering codependency for lasting confidence. In this session, I learned about taking time for myself, increasing self-confidence and letting go of negative thought patterns. Both the counseling session and groupinar were positive experiences and I would definitely recommend these services to anyone seeking to improve their personal mental health or strengthen their relationship.”
With hundreds of active therapists in its network and counseling services available in all U.S. states, Sesame is a convenient option for either video sessions or in-person marriage counseling. It provides users with location-based choices for counseling with the option to filter providers by cost, location or availability. Sesame offers a $10.99 monthly membership to save money on sessions, and pricing for services is specific to the area you live once you enter your location.
Although she did not use Sesame for marriage counseling, our reviewer tried signing up for individual therapy.
“Because I live in an area with a minimal amount of therapists, I didn’t have the best luck with Sesame. For those interested in trying Sesame, first ensure that there are therapists available in your area, as finding a provider in a timely manner is important when you’re in need of mental health treatment. You can do so by checking the company’s list of providers before you sign up.” Stephanie Watson, Forbes Health writer.
Unique in the fact that it caters to relationship therapy specifically, Our Ritual’s model is based off of Couple Relationship Education (CRE) research, which shows that goal-oriented shorter sessions (20 minutes) can be just as effective as longer, 50-minute sessions, according to the company. The company also highlights the importance of individual work and the benefits of psychoeducational resources and content. Our Ritual aims to work with budget, lifestyle and schedules to remove any barriers that might come with starting therapy. It also offers a 14-day money back guarantee if you’re not satisfied with your first session.
“Our Ritual’s approach involving ‘Pathways’ to address couples and individuals’ needs is unique compared to other online marriage counseling platforms. I like the fact that the monthly cost is relatively low compared to other platforms and that the four sessions can be divided into individual and couples sessions between you and your partner. I do wish it were covered by insurance or HSA/FSA fund-eligible and that it had a bigger provider network (it only has 60 therapists).”
Growing Self has a whole section of therapy offerings dedicated to “Love,” including Relationship Counseling and Coaching, Premarital Counseling, Dating Coaching and Parent Coaching. When signing up, you have the ability to choose between online or in-person services (however, in-person services are only available in Colorado), and you are also able to select from More Experienced, More Affordable and Best Fit, as the platform helps determine the best provider for you. You then choose from a list of available providers based on your selections and set up a free consultation.
Although our reviewer did not use Growing Self for marriage counseling, here are some thoughts on her experience.
“I was matched with a doctoral-level professional, so the rate was $170 for a single session (a bit pricey, in my opinion). He was very nice, with a calming and intelligent demeanor, and I could tell he was listening keenly to what I had to say. Given it was our first session, and it was only 45 minutes long, much of the meeting was occupied with general “getting to know you” conversation topics. At the end of the session, my provider recommended a few writing prompts intended to help me focus on my values and goals. Though I enjoyed the session, I don’t feel I’m able to fairly assess the results, as I think it would take at least two or three sessions to identify concrete goals and experience deeper insights and advice from my therapist (and witness results in my own life).” Meaghan Harmon, Forbes Health editor.
With its wide selection of providers and 40 accepted insurance plans, Amwell may be a convenient option for many couples seeking marriage counseling for issues including infidelity, infertility, parenting problems and more. Couples begin with a consultation with a licensed counselor to discuss concerns and goals as well as a treatment plan. The platform also offers individual counseling.
Although our reviewer did not use Amwell for marriage counseling, here are some thoughts on her experience.
“My therapist was very kind and shared just enough about her life that I felt connected to her, but not so much that she crossed professional boundaries. She was also an empathetic listener. She also taught me several concrete strategies to use to address the specific issues I was experiencing.
Though therapy isn’t always an enjoyable experience, I found the four sessions following my initial phone session very helpful. I came away with new effective strategies, and I plan to schedule with my Amwell therapist again.”Mary Pembleton, Forbes Health writer.
To source the best services for online marriage counseling of 2025, Forbes Health analyzes data across a number of online therapy providers, specifically looking at those who specialized in marriage and counseling. The Forbes Health editorial team also distributed an extensive survey to 43 online mental health providers to gather more information about what services they offer, the qualifications of their providers, how many providers are in their network, whether they accept insurance and more. Extra points were awarded to online therapy platforms that provided information about their services in our survey. Among those platforms, star rankings were assigned solely by the editorial team and based on the following factors:
Online marriage counseling is a mode of therapy that takes place online, such as through video conferencing. Similar to in-person sessions, regular online appointments with couples counselors can help people in partnerships enhance their communication, work on trust issues and reduce conflict.
“In many cases, [online couples therapy] is more accessible and convenient because it reduces the amount of time couples need to take off work for travel to and from an office,” says Angela Amais, a psychotherapist and couples counselor in Iowa City, Iowa. “Some couples also appreciate the privacy that online marriage counseling affords since they never need to sit in a waiting room in a therapy office.”
When starting marriage counseling, you will first decide whether you’d like to attend sessions in person or online. The availability of both may vary depending on your location and your chosen platform.
Marriage counseling research has shown that couple-based interventions may help address already present concerns in either or both partners, including those that are emotional, behavioral and even physical. While some couples may see a large reduction in overall distress surrounding the relationship, it’s important to note that marriage counseling may not be for everyone or the only solution to issues within a relationship.
For Relationship Ups, Downs And The Bits In Between
Make realistic, real-life improvements to your relationship with the guidance from your dedicated expert and personalized daily program created for your needs & goals from Ritual.
25% Off With Code FORBESOn OurRitual's Website
The average online marriage counseling session may last anywhere from 45 to 60 minutes, though some practices may offer longer appointments initially as you establish care. Sessions take place depending on the frequency that feels right for you, your partner and your therapist. To begin your session, you will receive a link to a secure, confidential and HIPAA-compliant online platform, says Emily Stone, Ph.D., a licensed marriage and family therapist in Austin, Texas.
“The first session will focus on reviewing expectations and goals,” she says, “The therapist often will explain more about how he or she works, what theories, approaches and interventions he or she uses, and what you can expect in terms of structure.”
Stone recommends taking time to ensure your therapist and the method they employ are a good fit for you and your partner. Your therapist might use one of the following approaches to couples therapy:
Gottman Method: With this approach—developed and researched by John Gottman and Julie Schwartz Gottman—your therapist will focus your conversations on the behaviors that harm relationships, such as criticism, contempt, defensiveness and stonewalling.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Often used for anxiety and depression, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can be used in couples counseling to pinpoint the source of relationship issues and focus on improving communication.
Emotion-Focused Therapy: This approach allows you and your partner to discover the emotions driving conflict in your relationship, and find ways to address them.
Imago Relationship Therapy: A therapist would use this method to explore patterns stemming from past trauma, and to explore how these experiences cause conflict in your relationship.
Solution-Focused Therapy: A therapist using this approach would help couples seeking support for one or two issues, creating a plan that encourages you to work on them outside of your sessions.
Online marriage counseling may be a good option for couples who are deterred from in-person therapy for a number of reasons, such as financial cost or limited access to therapists locally. Online therapy allows clients to find the help they need—often at a lower cost—from the comfort of their own home, negating the need for long commutes or childcare arrangements.[1]Megale A, Peterson E, Friedlander M.L. How Effective is Online Couple Relationship Education? A Systematic Meta-Content Review. Contemporary Family Therapy. 2021.
“Online couples therapy is attractive to busy professionals, stay-at-home parents and anyone with a lifestyle that would benefit from a convenient and approachable format such as online work,” says Stone. However, she emphasizes there are situations in which couples therapy is not a good fit. Individuals in need of treatment for drug addiction, violence and active infidelity should seek help before attempting couples therapy. In these situations, it may be unfair, unsafe or unethical to ask a partner to engage in sessions with them, she adds.
The total cost of online marriage counseling may depend on a variety of personal factors, including the platform you choose and if you have insurance coverage. If you have insurance and are using a platform that accepts it, you can usually expect to pay a copay, which often tends to be less than $50.
Whether or not you can access free online marriage counseling will often depend on your unique situation, such as your insurance provider. This will also be based on whether the counseling platform you choose accepts insurance, such as Amwell.
If you need free or low-cost marriage counseling and are having trouble finding that online, you could check with local training hospitals or clinics which may offer low-cost options via doctoral students or trainees earning hours toward their professional licensure. It should be supervised by a licensed clinician.
Online marriage counseling comes with a variety of pros and cons, which makes it important to weigh out the negatives with the benefits.
Pros:
Cons:
| COMPANY | FORBES HEALTH RATING | COST | TYPES OF THERAPY | INSURANCE ACCEPTED | MODES OF COMMUNICATION | LEARN MORE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.0 | Ranges from $65 to $90 a week (billed every four weeks and based on location and therapist availability) | Couples and marriage counseling | No | Video, phone or live chat | On ReGain's Website
| |
| 4.5 | Pricing varies depending on your location and provider, but discounts available with $10.99 monthly membership | Couples and individual | No | Video or in person | On Sesame Care's Website
| |
| 4.3 | Ranges from $100 to $260 per month, depending on your choice of solo care or therapy with your partner | Couples and marriage counseling, individualized or with your partner | No | Video | On Our Ritual's Website
| |
| 4.2 | Ranges from $115 to $170, depending on the education or credential level of chosen provider | Couples counseling, marriage counseling, relationship coaching, premarital counseling and more | Accepts out-of-network insurance coverage for those seeking therapy with a provider licensed in their state for a diagnosed mental health condition | Video, phone and in-person (for residents of Colorado only) | ||
| 4.1 | $109 to $129 per session | Couples and marriage counseling and individual therapy | Yes | Video |
Online marriage counseling may be an effective way to address concerns in your partnership. In fact, studies show it can be just as effective as in-person therapy. Couples participating in virtual counseling report high levels of satisfaction and share they are able to connect appropriately with their therapist.[2]Kysely A, Bishop B, Kane R, et al. Expectations and Experiences of Couples Receiving Therapy Through Videoconferencing: A Qualitative Study. Frontiers in Psychology. 2020;(10).
Marriage counseling is not typically covered by insurance, Amais says. However, a therapist might bill insurance when one person within a partnership qualifies for a mental health diagnosis, she adds. It’s always a good practice to contact your insurance company to confirm your benefits before beginning therapy.
Online marriage counseling can be done individually, Stone says. However, it’s best practice either for couples to be seen together or for each partner to attend individually, she adds.
Marriage counseling may be a bit shorter and more informal than couples therapy. Marriage counseling may also be better-suited for couples looking to build a strong foundation to their relationship (such as premarital counseling), while couples therapy might be a better fit for couples aiming to resolve a specific concern.
In the case of attempting to save a relationship, marriage counseling might be a better-suited option. Marriage counseling can provide a more intensive approach to issues and treatment, targeting deeper concerns. However, it’s important to note that the best level and type of care will depend on your unique situation and the needs of both you and your partner.
The ideal therapist for marriage counseling will be a licensed and/or credentialed mental health expert. Therapists on these platforms may include psychologists, social workers, licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT) and licensed counselors. However, it’s important to note that this can depend on personal preference, as someone seeking counseling through a faith-based source may not be fully licensed. Online therapy platforms may also offer discounted services through interned or pre-licensed professionals.
Information provided on Forbes Health is for educational purposes only. Your health and wellness is unique to you, and the products and services we review may not be right for your circumstances. We do not offer individual medical advice, diagnosis or treatment plans. For personal advice, please consult with a medical professional.
Forbes Health adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. To the best of our knowledge, all content is accurate as of the date posted, though offers contained herein may no longer be available. The opinions expressed are the author’s alone and have not been provided, approved or otherwise endorsed by our advertisers.
Lizzie Duszynski-Goodman is a journalist living in the Midwest with her husband and two young children. Her work explores the intersection of mental health, wellness and parenting. She is the former managing editor of Pregnancy Magazine. When not behind her computer, you can find her on a yoga mat or with her nose in a good book.
Dr. Sabrina Romanoff is a Harvard-trained clinical psychologist, professor, researcher and frequent contributor to major media outlets. She works with individuals and couples in her private practice based in New York City. Dr. Romanoff specializes in the treatment of anxiety, depression and trauma. Her research has been presented at the Harvard Medical School Mysell Psychiatry Research Symposium and published in The Journal of Psychiatry Research. Dr. Romanoff served as a professor at Yeshiva University where she taught clinical psychology doctoral students principles of group theory and practice. As a media contributor, Dr. Romanoff is featured frequently on major print, television and radio media outlets to discuss trending topics related to her expert knowledge in personal and professional relationships, stress and high-functioning anxiety.
